Cichlid
Care basics
Apistos are small, colorful dwarf cichlids with more than 90 described species. Most come from soft, acidic water with leaf litter on the bottom.
Give them caves, plants and leaf litter, keep the water clean and soft, and choose small, peaceful tank mates that swim higher in the water.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Apistogramma spp., pictured A. hongsloi |
|---|---|
| Group | South American |
| Native to | Soft water streams across South America |
| Adult size | Males about 3 inches, females smaller |
| Tank size | 20 gallons long for a pair or a male with two females |
| Temperature | 76 to 84 F |
| pH | 5.0 to 7.0, soft water |
| Temperament | Peaceful dwarf cichlid. Females guard eggs and fry fiercely. |
Sizes and ranges are typical hobby figures. Individual fish and local water vary, so test your water and ask your fish store about the specific fish you buy.
